Raith boss Ray McKinnon is in talks with Dundee United
Monday 9 May 2016 14:04, UK
Dundee United chairman Stephen Thompson is meeting with Raith Rovers manager Ray McKinnon on Monday.
United agreed a compensation package with the Championship club on Sunday evening, and Sky Sports News HQ understands talks will take place on Monday.
Thompson is searching for a replacement for Mixu Paatelainen, who was sacked as boss last week following United's relegation from the Scottish Premiership.
Initial contact was made between the clubs on Saturday evening shortly after Raith's 2-1 aggregate defeat to Scottish Cup finalists Hibernian in the promotion play-offs.
Despite United having an initial offer rejected, Raith chief executive Eric Drysdale has confirmed McKinnon has been given permission to discuss a move to Tannadice.
The 45-year-old former midfielder made almost 100 appearances for United during two spells between 1990 and 1998.
Drysdale said on Sunday night: "Ray wants to listen to what Dundee United have to say and we have agreed to allow this, having reached agreement on a compensation figure should United offer him the post and Ray accepts.
"The board met pre-match at Easter Road yesterday and Raith Rovers supporters should also be aware that chairman Alan Young and I have met with Ray on Thursday, post-match yesterday, and again this afternoon, and we are doing all we feasibly can to retain the services of our manager."
Meanwhile, United caretaker boss Gordon Young believes the chance for a return to Tannadice has come at the right time for McKinnon.
Young said: "Obviously our paths have crossed in football as happens but I don't know Ray personally. But he's done a terrific job at Raith, absolutely fantastic.
"I don't know what the situation is for people wanting a job like this but it would be a tremendous opportunity for somebody to start at the bottom and carve a new future.
"I think there is an opportunity to develop a new philosophy and a new pathway for the club.
"It's a big challenge to get the club back up at the first attempt but life is about big challenges. But it is a great opportunity to be successful here."
